Dr. Greg Feinsinger offers practical advice on preserving skin health, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle choices over expensive skincare products. While Americans spend billions on anti-aging treatments, the true causes of skin aging go beyond the lack of skin creams.
First and foremost, Dr. Feinsinger stresses the importance of not smoking. Cigarettes damage skin’s blood supply and break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Nicotine and other chemicals also have adverse effects on the skin’s appearance.
Second, excessive alcohol consumption accelerates skin aging. According to Dr. Michael Greger, alcohol’s breakdown products reduce carotenoid antioxidants in the skin, which increases vulnerability to sun damage and the risk of skin cancer.
UV radiation, whether from the sun or tanning booths, is another major contributor to premature skin aging. UV exposure causes wrinkles, sagging, and age spots, and increases the risk of skin cancer. Dr. Feinsinger advises wearing sun-protective clothing, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF, and opting for sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium, which physically block the sun’s rays. In contrast, chemical sunscreens may pose potential risks.
Diet also plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. Free radicals and oxidation contribute to skin aging and cancer, so it’s vital to consume foods rich in antioxidants, particularly plant-based foods. Dr. Feinsinger points out that plant-based diets can protect the skin from sun damage and slow the aging process. Research suggests that a plant-based diet may even reverse early-stage skin cancers like melanoma.
Acne, often linked to a Western diet, is also less prevalent in plant-based cultures. Dr. Feinsinger notes the connection between cow’s milk—especially skim milk—and acne, likely due to its high estrogen content. To combat acne, eating antioxidant-rich foods, such as colorful plant-based fruits and vegetables, can help. One study found that dried barberries, a fruit rich in antioxidants, reduced acne by 43% when consumed three times a day for a month.
While many anti-aging products on the market offer little benefit, Dr. Feinsinger advises focusing on nutrition to support skin health. For glowing, youthful skin, he recommends eating a plant-based diet packed with antioxidants. “Oh She Glows,” a cookbook, advocates for glowing from the inside out by nourishing the body with healthy foods.
By making mindful choices regarding smoking, alcohol, sun exposure, and diet, individuals can protect their skin from premature aging and maintain its youthful appearance for years to come.
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